Hit the Water on the Right Kiteboard

Selecting the appropriate kiteboarding board is crucial for your overall surfing experience. With the multitude of board types available, it can be somewhat overwhelming for beginners. Here, we'll guide you through two key considerations when choosing a kiteboard: size and style.

What Size Kiteboard Do I Need?

When it comes to size, you need to take both length and width into account. Generally, the heavier you are, the larger your board should be. An average board size ranges from 135 cm to 145 cm in length and approximately 40 cm to 46 cm in width. This board size is ideal for beginners who weigh around 70 - 85 kg (154-187lb).

However, the size you should choose also depends on your skill level, weather conditions, and preferred riding style. For instance, if you usually surf in choppy conditions, you might opt for a shorter board, around 127 - 135 cm in length.

Choosing Your Style of Kiteboard

There is a vast array of kitesurfing boards available to suit all abilities and boarding styles. Generally, the main distinction is between twin tip and directional kiteboards.

Twintip Kiteboards

A Twintip board is the most common and versatile type of kiteboard. A twintip board is symmetrically shaped at both ends, allowing it to be ridden facing either direction. It is similar in design to a wakeboard and usually features foot straps and pads. This type of board is suitable for almost every kitesurfing discipline and is particularly good for freestyle, freeride, and wakestyle boarding. Learning to kitesurf is generally easier with a twintip board.

Directional Kiteboards

This type of kiteboard resembles a classic surfboard. They typically come without straps and, like a surfboard, are designed for wave riding. Although you may not achieve high speeds on flat water, directional boards excel at carving and tight turns. They also require a different stance compared to twintip boards, placing more weight on the front foot instead of the back.

If you want to learn more about boards and other kiteboarding equipment, check out our guide on Buying Kitesurfing Gear.